Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are juicy and packed with flavor! The zesty lemon and bold pepper create a tasty combination that makes your taste buds dance with joy! 🍋
Cooking these thighs is super easy! I love how they can be baked or grilled, and you get that lovely crispy skin on the outside. Serve them with some veggies and say goodbye to bland meals!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option, but the skin adds a nice crispy texture.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are key for the bright flavor. If fresh lemons aren’t available, you can use bottled lemon juice; just adjust the amount to taste. For a twist, try lime juice!
Olive Oil: Olive oil brings richness to the marinade. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: It provides a wonderful zing. If you don’t have it, mix together black pepper and a touch of lemon zest. This is a good way to create a similar flavor without buying another spice.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat but are optional. If you’d prefer a milder dish, leave them out or substitute with a pinch of paprika for color without extra spice.
How Can I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for infusing your chicken thighs with flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure they’re well combined.
- Coat the chicken evenly and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For even better results, marinate in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
- Don’t rush this step; marinating helps tenderize the meat and enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Remember, the longer you marinate, the more flavor you’ll pack into each bite! Just don’t exceed 2 hours for chicken or it could turn mushy.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. If you have time, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor) is a great idea. Altogether, you should plan for about 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how long you marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, turn your oven on and set it to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake our chicken.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Stir it well until everything is nicely blended together.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, take your chicken thighs and place them in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. If you have time, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes; but if you can, pop them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to soak up all that goodness!
4. Arrange and Prepare for Baking:
After marinating, place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the baking dish. For an extra burst of flavor, lay a few lemon slices on top of the thighs.
5. Bake the Chicken:
It’s time to bake! Slide the dish into your preheated oven and let the chicken cook for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is crispy on the outside and the inside reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that lovely touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your lemon pepper chicken thighs hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes since boneless thighs cook faster. Make sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I Substitute the Olive Oil?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute olive oil with melted butter, avocado oil, or even coconut oil. Each will give the chicken a unique taste, so pick what you enjoy best!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover lemon pepper chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven helps keep the skin crispy!
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Dish?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great idea! Consider adding sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the baking dish alongside the chicken. Toss them in some olive oil and seasoning for added flavor. Just ensure they have enough space to roast nicely and be done in the same time as the chicken!
